USA Summer Soiree in Dublin’s Shelbourne
The stars, stripes and spangles were out in force on July 13th in Dublin’s stunning 5* Shelbourne Hotel on St Stephen’s Green. Of course, Travelbiz was there to report on it all and bring you the lowdown on the top stories. The super line-up of sponsors included Dublin Airport, Brand USA, Visit New Jersey, Visit Connecticut and Bradley International Airport. The eagerly anticipated annual event kicked off with a lively drinks reception and continued into the delightfully decorated Great Hall all where balloons, cupcakes and flags dominated. Red, white and blue was the order of the evening and we had great rousing speeches throughout.
Her Excellency, Claire D Cronin, US Ambassador to Ireland spoke passionately of making memories; Sara Beckwith and Louise Baily (Brand USA) highlighted their super informative trade portal to upskill on all matters USA; Jenny Rafter from Aer Lingus advised that US airlift is now fully restored with 16 cities benefitting from direct flights and numbers returned to pre-pandemic levels; Vincent Harrison of Dublin Airport DAA told us that a staggering 3.25 million passengers passed through Dublin airport travelling on 22.000 flights in June this year; Tony Sheridan and Sharon Trafficante (Connecticut airports) described the beauty of Connecticut and praised it as the most picturesque part of New England with Bradley Airport having been recognised as 2nd best airport in US by Conde Nast; perennially popular Greg Evans and Jeffrey Vasser (New Jersey Travel & Tourism) brought the house down advocating the joys of New Jersey and commenting that Newark and Lady Liberty herself are both located in New Jersey. Finally, Paul Hackett (ITAA President) concluded proceedings by lauding the wonders and diversity of the USA and commenting how the Irish simply love to travel across the pond.
The evening was a huge success with hundreds of delighted guests enjoying delicious food, flowing wine and great company. It was the ideal networking event, meticulously organised and carried off to smooth perfection. To quote the ladies from Brand USA – Go USA because every place has a story. Visit USA – this is where it’s at. Well done Travelmedia and the hardworking team for a brilliant event.
A huge Travelbiz thankyou to our hosts on the night Declan Power and Isabel Harrison from Shannon Aiport.
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